Excited screams filled the SSE Arena on Tuesday night as thousands of fanatical One Direction fans eagerly awaited their idols.

Support act Jamie Lawson had the crowds in great form and fans couldn't contain themselves as they eagerly waited for Niall, Harry, Louis and Liam to take to the stage.

Even clips on the big screen of the boys prompted deafening screams from fans.

The superstar boyband made an appearance in a short pre-recorded clip shown around 8.45pm, giving fans some brief safety advice and saying they "couldn't wait to perform for you tonight".

But the excited screams soon turned to a chorus of boos and tear stained cheeks, as a lone man took to the stage just before 9pm, to break the news that the concert had been cancelled due to Liam's illness.

A brave man I have to say to come out and give that news to thousands of young people, some of who had travelled from across Europe.

I like many others around me thought it was a joke at first, that the boys were going to burst onto the stage and shout, "Got ya!", but no...

Reality soon hit home as the arena lights went on and fans were asked to proceed in an orderly fashion and to keep hold of their tickets.

I was surrounded by young children, some as young as 5 and 6 years old, who were inconsolable at the news that they wouldn't be seeing their heroes that night.

Parents confusion soon turned to anger as they were left counting the cost of the night with expensive merchandise and travel.

Many fans I spoke to couldn't quite believe what had happened, with many left wondering why the other members didn't come out and break the news themselves? Or even continue with the show without Liam.

Speculation was rife as to what exactly went on, did Liam really only take ill minutes before they went on stage?

Confusion reigned as it was revealed on Twitter by BBC's Stephen Nolan that he had been due to interview Niall yesterday afternoon, but was told Niall was ill and so Louis was sent to do the interview instead.

Were they both ill? Had there been a bust-up back stage as many suggested?

Whatever the reason, thousands were left disappointed and although the concert has since been rescheduled, the sad memories of some young fans first ever concert will definitely not fade in a hurry.